What a whirlwind March has been? If you had asked me 2-3 weeks ago what I thought about the Coronavirus you would have heard me exuding optimism that it wouldn’t impact your travels much.

Fast forward to today and you've no doubt received emails from numerous companies telling you what they are doing to keep you safe or that they are temporarily closing. You've even probably changed your greetings from handshakes to elbows and head nods.

In this ever-changing world I ask you to remain hopeful and offer some advice that can possibly help you, your friends and family.

Stay Productive: Reach for the book that’s been sitting on your shelf for a while or hone your skills for your current or future job. It’s also never too late to learn a new language for all the future travels you will do.

Reach out: This is the time to pick up the phone and call that friend, family member, and all the other people that you’ve been meaning to call. Share some stories and laughs with them as we are all cooped up at home Most importantly really call them and let them hear your voice rather than a text.

Chill out: Love Netflix? Download the Netflix Party extension and watch a show with your friends. Some very good shows are out right now. I’ve personally got a chance to catch Unorthodox and will catch up on Ozark

Addicted to Travel?: Check out Fathom’s guide for things to whet your appetite for travel while you sit tight. Most importantly exercise, keep your body moving as much as you can.

Gift Cards: If you still can’t wait to travel again, grab a gift card, two or three that can be used towards our service fee in the future, click here to purchase

REAL ID Update : Real ID requirements have been extended to October 1, 2021- click here for more information

Donate: Lastly, if you are in the position to help, please consider donating to an organization near and dear to me- Prospect Hill Academy Charter School as they work tirelessly to send the students in the Cambridge area with the most need home from school with at least 3 or more weeks worth of food. Click here to support their Covid 2019 Family Support Fund and don't forget to type Friend of KJ in the additional comments section at the bottom of the page.

While I can't tell you when this will end; I can assure you that this too will pass and I'm optimistic that we will make it to the other end stronger than before.

As Always Keep Exploring While Socially Distancing,

KJ

A Global Pause